Area Characteristics
Okayama Prefecture which is located in the western part of the main island of Honshu in the Chugoku region is known for the Seto Ohashi Bridge which is the world’s largest bridge linking Honshu with the island of Shikoku. On its southern coast, the tranquil Seto Inland Sea and its beautiful islands spread out, while inland the Edo Era townscapes bring a feeling of history. The interior of the prefecture is a major traffic hub for the Chugoku and Shikoku regions with a network of highways, Okayama Airport, the Sanyo Shinkansen (Bullet Train) and 7 conventional trains running through Okayama Station.
Major Sites
Koraku-en Garden, which has earned 3 stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japon, is a wondrous site which is popular for its cherry blossoms in spring and the fact that it is also open during summer and fall evenings. The Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter which stands out for its townscape of white walls has been recognized as an Important Preservation District of Historical Buildings which can be enjoyed for its Edo Era scenery. Within the quarter, there are sites such as the Ohara Museum of Art and Kurashiki Ivy Square where a perfect balance of Japan and the West melts into the area. As well, there are historical structures such as Okayama Castle, Matsuyama Castle with a surviving castle keep, and Kibitsu Shrine which has a connection with the folk hero Momotaro (Peach Boy). Mimasaka Santo in the north is famous as an onsen village.
Food
Okayama which is known as a paradise for fruits is famous for white peach, and Pione and Muscat grapes. The prefecture also stands out for its seafood-based local dishes such as Okayama barazushi, yamamakarizushi and Sawara cuisine. Also popular are Tsuyama horumon (innards) udon, Hiruzen yakisoba and Okayama demi-katsudon. For souvenirs, kibi dango (millet flour dumplings) are popular.
Transportation
Getting to Okayama from Tokyo by Shinkansen is the usual route and a ride there takes about 3 hours and 12 minutes. Within the Okayama and Kurashiki areas, there are plenty of trains, tourist buses and other types of transportation running.
Accommodations
There are plenty of accommodations around Okayama Station, Okayama Airport, Kurashiki and Mimisaka Santo.